A Coastal Destination Wedding for Every Season at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

March 22, 2017

From springtime affairs that embrace the rich, coastal bounty, to outdoor weddings in the summer complete with surfboard photo shoots, to vibrant fall celebrations among the colorful foliage, to cozy winter escapes, the majestic coastal retreat offers memorable nuptials for every couple, no matter the season.

Springtime Coastal Brunch 2.0

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay invites couples to take in the Northern California coast’s springtime beauty with a bespoke “Bloody Mary & Bubbly on the Bluff” offering: a twist on the traditional “Morning After” brunch ritual. A perfect continuation of the preceding day’s grand affair on the Ocean Lawn, the resort composes a custom Bloody Mary and Mimosa bar on its iconic bluff where guests can hand-craft their own libations while enjoying breathtaking ocean views. The bar features a selection of premium spirits and bubbly, fresh-squeezed juices, and locally purveyed ingredients and garnishes along with gourmet bites made with items from California. Those wishing to extend festivities into the late afternoon or early evening are invited to gather around one of the resort’s signature fire pits on the Ocean Terrace to watch the famous California sunset. Soothing melodies from the resort’s Sunset Bagpiper and homemade s’mores around the fire cap off the delicious post-wedding experience.

Summer Adventures on the Coast

With the stunning California coastline as its backyard, active and adventurous couples alike can take advantage of the infinite outdoor adventures that await just steps away from the resort. From surfing and paddle boarding the world-renowned waves in Half Moon Bay, to biking the iconic Coastal Trail, to golfing at Half Moon Bay Golf Links, the resort can arrange a bevy of pre- or post- nuptial activities to add extra excitement to the wedding experience. For surfing fanatics, the resort can facilitate an exclusive photo shoot of the wedding party in the ocean on surfboards (wearing wet suits or wedding attire) for a whimsical memory of their coastal destination wedding.

Fall in Love with Fall

Fall is one of the most beautiful seasons of year in Half Moon Bay – known as the Pumpkin Capital of the World – and with colorful foliage boasting vibrant hues and harvest in full swing, it sets the stage for some of the most picturesque destination weddings. Couples who tie the knot at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay may opt to indulge in a pumpkin-inspired tasting menu from Navio Chef Jason Pringle at their reception, made exclusively for their special day. The resort’s expert mixologists can also create original cocktails for the wedding using pumpkin and other fresh locally sourced fall ingredients. Following the big day, guests can embark on excursions to local purveyors such as Harley Farms Goat Dairy – from which the resort purchases many of its ingredients – to fully embrace the autumnal beauty that surrounds the resort.

Winter Escape with Fire & Wine

The mild winter weather in Northern California offers an exceptional backdrop for couples seeking a cozy winter wedding but prefer to avoid the snow. The Observatory Room – The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay’s premier intimate reception venue, accommodating up to 60 guests – is uniquely octagonal-shaped and boasts nearly 360-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, offering the perfect vantage point to watch the famous California winter sunsets (accommodates up to 60 guests). In addition, couples who wed in the winter can take advantage of what the resort does exceptionally well: fire and wine on the coast. The resort’s sommelier can pour a custom tasting of reserve wines from the nearby Santa Cruz Mountains – which are said to rival top wines in Napa and Sonoma – while guests gather around one of the fire pits overlooking the ocean. Luxurious spa treatments – such as the signature Redwood Forest Ritual featuring indigenous earthy herbs and wood blends – are also available at The Ritz-Carlton Spa to luxuriate before the big day. A co-ed whirlpool and fireplace along with ladies and gentlemen sauna and steam rooms further elevate the winter retreat experience.

About The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

Set atop a rugged bluff overlooking 50 miles of pristine California coastline, The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is a 261-room spa and golf resort offering a relaxing and romantic setting. The timeless estate provides guests with a relaxed yet refined experience for a romantic getaway. For more information, please contact The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay at 650-712-7000. For room reservations, contact your travel professional, visit ritzcarlton.com/HMB or call Ritz-Carlton worldwide reservations at 800-241-3333. Visit ExperienceHalfMoonBay.com to learn more about the destination.